Age Spot Removal

Additional Info

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Goes beyond traditional creams and major surgeries to improve sun-damaged skin and other facial concerns safely and effectively with minimal down time or interference with an active lifestyle. The passage of time and the pleasures and stresses of daily life, along with environmental pollution can cause changes to our skin such as:

Sun and Smoke Damage

Enlarged Pores

Broken Capillaries

Mild Acne Scars

Fine Lines & Wrinkles

Pigmented Freckles and Age Spots

Dull Complexions

Uneven Pigmentation

Liver Spots

Often known as liver spots, these are an all too visible reminder of the passing of time. Age spots appear in people over 40 although younger people can be affected as well. If you have noticed several flat brown or black spots on your face, hands, arms and shoulders then these are likely to be age spots.

Causes of age spots

The ageing process is the main reason hence the name. But they also occur from years of exposure to direct sunlight, often as a result of sunbathing or heavy use of sunbeds. Constant exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays changes the colour of skin, turning it to a light or dark brown colour.

This is fine when you are young but as you get older your skin is less effective at regeneration as a result of sun exposure which leads to the formation of age spots. Plus your skin is thinner and more fragile as you age which increases this risk.

Genetics also plays a part. If your parents or a close family member has age spots then you will have inherited this condition.

Who is more at risk of age spots?

Apart from genetic factors; if you have fair skin or are a keen sun worshipper then you are more likely to develop this condition. But statistically, anyone can get age spots.

Age spots do not determine your age: what they are is the consequences of years of exposure to the sun, i.e. tanning. So think carefully the next time you decide to bag some rays whilst on holiday.

Symptoms of age spots

These spots are flat, oval shaped objects which are brown, black or even grey in colour. They vary in size and develop in areas which are most exposed to the sun, e.g. hands. They develop on the arms, shoulders, back, chest and neck as single spots or in groups.

Diagnosing age spots

These are diagnosed via a skin biopsy and a physical examination by your GP.

There are other skin conditions which display symptoms that are very similar to age spots. These include seborrheic keratosis (benign skin growths) and moles. But an examination plus a biopsy will rule these out.